MUSCAT, 5 June 2006 — Oman Football Association’s (OFA) first ever corporate sponsorship signing was held in the Omani capital over the weekend.
Gulf Air, the national carrier of Oman, will become an integral part of the country’s international football set up following a multimillion-dollar sponsorship deal whereby the airline will be the official sponsor for the national senior, Olympic, Under-19 and Under-17 teams.
“As part of our smart airline, successful business strategy, we are already helping to build a better future for Oman by way of our financial contribution to the country’s economy,” says Gulf Air President and Chief Executive James Hogan.
“This has been achieved by increased flights through Seeb Airport and initiatives such as the new maintenance center and the worldwide call center in Muscat. Now we want to turn to more leisurely pursuits and build something that is even closer to the heart of most Omanis — the national football teams.”
“We hope that we can help the senior team climb the world rankings and at the same time foster exciting new footballing talent across the Sultanate,” Hogan said.
Hogan and OFA Chairman Khalil ibn Ahmed Al Khalili signed the three-year sponsorship deal in the presence of dignitaries including Oman’s Minister of Sports Affairs Ali ibn Masoud bin Ali Al Sunaidi.
“We’re grateful to Gulf Air for their initiative, which is the first of its kind for the Oman Football Association,” says Al Khalili. “This falls in line with Oman’s strategy to chalk out a bright future for sports in the sultanate and will be a catalyst to further develop and promote the sporting scene in Oman — one of our top priorities.”
The three-year sponsorship will give Gulf Air multiple branding, promotional and sales opportunities.
